Revolutionary Connecticut Last Updated 5/16

There are many ways to explore the Revolutionary War in Connecticut, which was nicknamed The Provision State by Gen. George Washington for its ability to supply the war effort with food, munitions and manufactured goods. Here are some highlights:

Revolutionary Connecticut

Experience America’s roads to independence by car or bicycle in nine specially designed tours at Revolutionary Connecticut. Each tour links Revolutionary sites in a fresh and original way through layered narratives around key figures, such as Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold.

Fort Griswold

In September 1781, British troops under turncoat Benedict Arnold raided Fort Griswold in Groton and burned New London in the Battle of Groton Heights. Today the site is a state park that includes the restored earthwork battery, cannons, monuments and memorials.

Rochambeau’s Route

A critical late turning point in the war was the French entry – and nowhere was this more dramatically seen than in the 1781 march of French troops across Connecticut to meet up with Gen. George Washington’s troops for a final steady push south to Yorktown.

Nathan Hale Homestead

Nathan Hale famously gave up his life to the Revolutionary cause with the words, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” His life is commemorated at his Homestead in Coventry and two Nathan Hale Schoolhouses – one in East Haddam and the other in New London.

Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum

The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum in historic Old Wethersfield consists of three houses – the Joseph Webb House served as George Washington’s headquarters in May 1781, while the Silas Deane House was built for America’s Revolutionary War diplomat to France.

Keeler Tavern Museum

The Battle of Ridgefield, an April 1777 defeat for the British, can be recalled today at Keeler Tavern, where a cannonball from that distant skirmish remains lodged in the side of the building.

Putnam Memorial State Park

Revolutionary troops camped at Putnam Memorial State Park during the winter of 1778-79. Today, you’ll find reconstructed log buildings and a museum, where display panels tell the story of the war, Connecticut’s role in it and the events that took place during the encampment.